Client: Rockhampton Grammar School (RGS)
Project Duration: 2023–2024
Lead Consultant: Steven J. Anderson – Independent Consultant, High-Performance Leadership & Sport Strategy

Overview
Over a two-year period, Steven J. Anderson led the strategic design and implementation of a three-tiered rugby development model at Rockhampton Grammar School. This initiative encompassed a Year 7–12 Player Pathway Program, a high-performance Academy, and an Advanced Coach Program. The project aimed to embed a structured, values-driven rugby culture that integrates long-term player development, performance psychology, and coaching excellence

Program Components

1. Pathway Program (Years 7–12):
   A clearly structured development system was introduced to support student-athletes from Year 7 through to Year 12. The program established consistent training and competition frameworks across all age levels, gradually increasing technical, tactical, and psychological demands. The model drew from elite academy systems in Ireland and Australia, preparing students for the mental and physical challenges of competitive rugby.
2. RGS Academy:
   The Academy delivered holistic athlete development through targeted modules on leadership, teamwork, resilience, sports science, and performance psychology. Students engaged in data-informed conditioning, scenario-based mindset training, and culture-building workshops. The Academy reinforced the school’s ethos while equipping players with the tools to thrive both on and off the field.
3. Advanced Coach Program:
   To elevate coaching quality and alignment, RGS introduced a tailored professional development pathway for school and academy coaches. The program focused on advanced methodology, leadership, and mentoring skills, backed by modern game analytics and aligned with national standards. This initiative ensured a consistent coaching philosophy and improved the delivery of the Pathway and Academy.

Strategic Partnerships
Key partnerships were formed with the Gold Coast Titans (NRL) and Western Force (Super Rugby). These affiliations provided RGS with access to elite training environments, coaching clinics, and talent pathways. Students and staff engaged directly with professional systems, creating tangible links between school-based development and national-level performance standards.

Outcomes and Impact
Within two years, measurable cultural and performance improvements emerged. Internal surveys from 2023–2024 reflected a significant uplift in player confidence, team cohesion, and leadership capability. The program enhanced the school’s rugby profile, built staff capacity, and laid a replicable foundation for long-term athletic and coaching excellence. RGS is now positioned as a benchmark school in regional Australia for high-performance sport development in education.

“The RGS model is an example of what happens when player development, coaching excellence, and leadership education are strategically aligned. The result is not just better athletes—but better people.”
— Steven J. Anderson